The Duchess of Cambridge has praised teachers for being a “lifeline” for families but urged them to “please look after yourselves”.
The Duchess was speaking during a series of video calls with teachers and staff from Ribbon Academy, County Durham, which - like schools all over the country - has been holding classes for vulnerable children and those of key workers while simultaneously providing remote learning.
Speaking to headteacher Ashley Sheridan, she said: “Schools are doing an amazing job. As parents, you really recognise what a vital role you do play for us on a day-to-day basis - having remote learning as well.”
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Meeting staff during Children’s Mental Health Week, the Duchess asked about the mental health of parents and was told by teacher Louise Tweedie that the pandemic will encourage schools to prioritise mental health.
Duchess of Cambridge ‘passionate about the work that teachers do’
The Duchess, who held the one-to-one video calls on Tuesday, added: “I totally agree. (I’m) so passionate about all the work that teachers up and down the country are doing. You are doing the most amazing job.
“You are a lifeline to so many families out there. I know it takes an awful lot of effort, energy, patience.”
Ribbon Academy and Place2Be, a charity that provides mental health support in schools, have been working in partnership since 2002 to provide teachers and school workers with the tools they need to support the psychological wellbeing of children, parents and staff.
The Duchess also spoke to Chris Reay, a high-level teaching and learning partner, who attended Place2Be sessions as a child after a traumatic life event, and is now working at the school in the village of Murton near Durham.
The Duchess, who is royal patron of Place2Be, said: “I know this time has been really challenging for teachers across the country. You play such a vital role in looking after our children, so it’s important that you are looked after, too.
“I want to say a massive thank you to teachers across the country. You’re doing a fantastic job. It’s been really, really hard work. But please look after yourselves.”
